Charles Ellis Armstead

Charles was born on February 28, 1936. Affectionately known as “Pawpaw” and “Charlie,” he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-

grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend who never met a stranger and was loved by all who knew him. Charles was educated in the

 Florence public schools at Burrell Slater High School, and he excelled in academics and sports. He was an avid basketball player who was inducted

 into the Burrell Slater Hall of Fame. He was a faithful member of Petersville Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon and remained

 committed throughout his life. His faith was strong, and he lived it daily through kindness, service, and love for others. Charles was a hardworking

 man who retired from Robbin’s Tire & Rubber Company after 41 years of dedication. Even in retirement, he remained active, making his daily visits

 and connecting with people everywhere he went. He truly knew someone wherever he went. He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife of 67

 years, Rubye Mae Armstead; and children, Barbara Armstead, Gina (PaRon) Dillard, Charles Armstead, Jr., and Towanda (Damon) Williams. His

 legacy continues through his grandchildren: LaTisha Russell, Marlon and Jasmine Armstead, La Marius (Lillian) Dillard, Jermaine and Dominique

 Garner, Jellisha (Malike) Lawing, Jarell (Nicole), Jadia, and Jamar Armstead. He also leaves numerous great-grandchildren, including Bryeshia

 Polk, Braniyah and Bryheim Russell, Leila Dillard, Marlon Armstead, Jr., Starr, Jay, Messiah, and Ja’Layah Garner, Jerimiah, Anjeleatta, and

 Javarion Williams, Ariella, Jarell Jr., Aaliyah, Mason, and Brandon Armstead; and one great-great-grandchild, Jerimiah Williams, Jr. He is also

 survived by devoted family and friends, including sister in-law, Gilda Hooks; brothers-in-law, Michael (Joyce) Brown and Mansfield Key; Natalie

 Gordon, Deacon Clifford Anderson, and Ben Armstead; nieces, Alberta Alexander, Sharetha and Lashondra Williams; nephews, Marecus, Ricky and

 Billy Williams; sisters-in law, Dorothy Thomas, Carrie Mae, and Cadella Coman; brother in-law, Tyrone (Shelly) Brown; and sister, Vera Crittenden.

 Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Sadie Mae and William Penn Williams, and Joe Henry Gray; daughter, Vanessa “Boo” Armstead;

 sister, Nelly Marie Alexander; brother, Ricky Williams; sisters-in-law, Myra Howell and Shirley Key; and niece, Shereena Hooks. Charles will be

 remembered for his unwavering faith, love for his family, and ability to make everyone feel welcome.